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Banff: Morning or Afternoon Johnston Canyon Icewalk – How to Plan Your Tour

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!

Banff: Morning or Afternoon Johnston Canyon Icewalk – How to Plan Your Tour

Are you planning a trip to Banff and looking for a fun winter activity? Look no further than the Johnston Canyon Icewalk. This scenic hike takes you to frozen waterfalls and provides stunning winter views of the canyon. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your morning or afternoon Johnston Canyon Icewalk tour.

Experience

The Johnston Canyon Icewalk is a winter experience that takes you on a 2.7-kilometer hike to the Upper Falls of Johnston Canyon. Along the way, you’ll see the majestic frozen waterfall, learn about the history and geology of the area, and take in the winter scenery. This tour is perfect for adventure seekers, families, and anyone who wants to explore Banff in the winter.

Highlights

The highlights of the Johnston Canyon Icewalk include:

  • A scenic drive along Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon
  • A moderate hike to the Upper Falls through a wildlife-rich habitat
  • A chance to see frozen waterfalls and stunning winter views of the canyon
  • A cup of hot chocolate and maple cookies to warm up
  • A knowledgeable guide who will teach you about the history and geology of the area

Full Description

The tour starts with pickup from Banff and a scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway to the Johnston Canyon trailhead. Once you arrive, your guide will show you how to put on ice cleats over your winter boots and give you some tips on winter hiking.

You’ll then embark on a moderate 2.7 kilometer hike with 135-meter elevation to the Upper Falls. Along the way, you’ll walk along steel catwalks built into the canyon walls, which allows for spectacular views down the canyon walls to the ice and river below. You’ll learn about the clues to how Johnston Canyon was formed and stop at the Lower Falls where you’ll have a chance to take photos.

After the hike, you’ll warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and maple cookies while admiring the views. Your knowledgeable guide will teach you about the history and geology of the area before taking you back to Banff.

How to Plan Your Tour

To plan your Johnston Canyon Icewalk tour, follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose Your Tour Time

You can choose between a morning or afternoon tour of the Johnston Canyon Icewalk. Select the time that works best for your schedule.

Step 2: Book Your Tour

Book your tour by clicking here and complete the checkout process.

Step 3: Dress Appropriately

Dress warmly and in layers for the winter weather. Wear waterproof hiking boots and bring gloves, a hat, and a warm jacket.

Step 4: Be Prepared for the Hike

The hike to the Upper Falls of Johnston Canyon is moderate and requires some physical activity. Be prepared with water and snacks, and make sure to listen to your guide’s instructions.

Conclusion

The Johnston Canyon Icewalk is a must-do winter activity in Banff. Book your morning or afternoon tour and get ready to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies in the winter. Dress appropriately, be prepared for the hike, and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.

An Insider’s Guide to Banff National Park

Banff is a charming mountain town located in the heart of Canada’s first national park, Banff National Park. Visitors who come to this area are treated to jaw-dropping scenery of rugged peaks, turquoise lakes, and glittering glaciers. With plenty of things to see and do, Banff offers an excellent opportunity to explore Canada’s natural beauty. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip to Banff unforgettable.

Top Attractions in Banff

Banff National Park covers 6,641 square kilometres and is home to breathtaking landscapes that are sure to leave visitors speechless. Some of the top attractions in Banff include:

Johnston Canyon Icewalk

The Johnston Canyon Icewalk is a must-do activity for visitors to Banff. This winter wonderland trail features breathtaking rock formations, icy waterfalls, and picturesque views of the Bow River Valley. You can take this tour either in the morning or afternoon and spend two and a half hours exploring the canyon.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is a stunning glacier-fed lake known for its turquoise water. During the summer months, visitors can rent a canoe or hike around the lake, while in the winter, the area becomes a winter wonderland with opportunities for ice skating and snowshoeing.

Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola takes visitors 7,500 feet above sea level to the top of Sulphur Mountain, offering a panoramic view of the town, the Bow Valley, and six different mountain ranges.

Top Dining Spots in Banff

Banff has a range of dining options that offer both local and international cuisine. Some of the best spots to check out include:

Grizzly House

Grizzly House is a Banff institution that has been serving fondue since 1967. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere and offers a range of fondue options, including beef, seafood, and even chocolate!

The Bison Restaurant

This farm-to-table restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The menu features game meats like bison, elk, and venison, alongside vegetarian options.

Coyotes Southwestern Grill

Coyotes Southwestern Grill offers a fusion of Southwestern and Mexican cuisine. Visitors rave about the restaurant’s margaritas and the delicious tacos.

Cultural Experiences in Banff

Banff has a rich history and culture with plenty of opportunities for tourists to experience it. Here are some of the top cultural experiences to check out:

Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies offers visitors a glimpse into Banff’s history and culture. It features exhibitions on the history of the area, local art, and even a historic log cabin.

Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity

The Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity is a hub for arts and creativity in the area. It offers workshops, performances, and exhibitions featuring artists from around the world.

Local History in Banff

Banff has a rich history, and visitors can learn more about it at these historical sites:

The Cave and Basin National Historic Site

The Cave and Basin National Historic Site is the birthplace of Banff National Park. The site features hot springs, boardwalks, and a museum.

Banff Park Museum

The Banff Park Museum is a natural history museum that features exhibitions on the local wildlife and flora.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Banff

Here are some unexpected but exciting things to do in Banff:

Johnston Canyon Secret Cave

In addition to taking the Johnston Canyon Icewalk, visitors can explore a secret cave at the end of the trail. The cave has an underground waterfall and a tranquil pool.

Mystic Valley Day Lodge

The Mystic Valley Day Lodge is a hidden gem in Banff. It features stunning views of the mountains and a cozy cabin atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Bow Valley Provincial Park

Bow Valley Provincial Park is located just outside of Banff and offers visitors a quiet and tranquil experience away from the crowds. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the Bow River.

In conclusion, Banff National Park offers visitors an infinite opportunity to explore the natural beauty that Canada has to offer. With so many attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to choose from, Banff is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families.

abstral official aqcI4EgSwg unsplash scaled

Banff: Morning or Afternoon Johnston Canyon Icewalk – How to Plan Your Tour

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!